Cheddar Ham Soup

3 red potatoes, diced
3 cups water, or enough to cover potatoes
1 cup sliced carrots
1/4 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
2 cups milk, for extra creamy soup use half and half or heavy cream
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups cubed ham, or 1-16oz package
1 cup frozen peas (optional)

In a large saucepan, saute carrot, onion, and celery in a little bit of oil until just tender. Add potatoes and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 10 - 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Meanwhile, in another saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring so it doesn't go lumpy. Bring to a boil and stir for another two minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheese until melted. Stir into undrained potato mixture, then add ham and peas and heat through.

I got this recipe from www.excellenteats.blogspot.com